The Internet has changed the way we do virtually everything, including the way we shop. However, shopping is not the only thing that has changed. In the last decade we have changed the way, we apply for loans, study, and even plan a vacation. Doing any of these things would have been impossible a few decades ago. At present, online banking, paying bills, ordering new services, and shopping online have become part of our daily lives. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores have been around much longer than online stores, but we cannot deny that online shopping is giving the traditional stores competition. Many consumers still choose to shop at regular brick-and-mortar stores because they like to see and touch the product they are buying, but whether you are buying clothes, electronics, cars, houses, and even rare items shopping online will save you not only time but also money. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores used to be the preferred choice, but a recent study done by Pew Internet & American Life Project, shows that 71% of all U.S. adults shop online. Online shopping is more beneficial to the consumer, and many people are choosing it instead of conventional shopping for its convenience, versatility, and reliability.
Shopping online is convenient because online stores are easy to use, offer a huge selection, and are always open. There is no need to wait until the stores open in the morning to shop since online stores are open seven days a week, 24 hours a day. You can shop from the comfort of your own home while wearing your favorite pajamas. Typing the name of the item you are looking for in a search engine will produce many matches at different stores making finding items easy and advantageous to the consumer. In fact, shopping online allows you to browse thru several stores at the same time. The virtual shopping experience has evolved to mirror the in-store shopping experience, and browsing thru items online is easier
References: http://www.digby.com/mobile-industry-resources/mobile-industry-statistics/ http://www.businessweek.com/debateroom/archives/2010/07/shopping_as_we_know_it_will_disappear.html http://www.internetretailer.com/trends/consumers/ http://www.infifthgear.com/2010/quick-online-shopping-statistics/